During a press conference Thursday morning, Malkin said that one of the factors in deciding to sign long term was that he believes they will win another Stanley Cup. He enjoys playing with Sidney Crosby and likes that other players want to come to Pittsburgh to have the opportunity to play with them.

The deal came together pretty quick as the Penguins were only eliminated from the playoffs last week. Over the past couple of days, Malkin spoke with his agent and General Manager Ray Shero as the deal came together.

Malkin said his favorite memory as a Penguins came during his first year. He said the way the fans welcomed him when he took the ice for the first time was an unbelievable moment.

After taking home the Art Ross, Hart memorial and Ted Lindsay Trophies a year ago, Malkin racked up nine goals and 24 assists in 31 games this season.

In the playoffs, Malkin (four goals, 12 assists) was tied with Kris Letang for the team lead in points with 16.

In 2009, Malkin helped lead the Penguins to the third Stanley Cup championship in franchise history. His 36 points (14 goals, 22 assists) were a big reason as to why he was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy.

Malkin is also sitting in seventh on the team’s all-time scoring list with 560 points (217 goals, 343 assists).

Casey Shea came to KDKA in 2009, just after the Penguins won their third Stanley Cup. While he was born and raised in New England, he has always been a Penguins fan. Check back often for his take on the team!